Color Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
Sponsored by Hollister
Login   |  
Forgot password?
 
Forum
Videos
Reviews
About Us
Color Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
Where Everybody Understands You
41,427 members
May 17, 2010

Considering Illeostomy Reversal with Scar Tissue Concerns

The topic at hand is about considering an ileostomy reversal when there is significant scar tissue present. An ileostomy reversal is a procedure to reconnect the bowel after an ileostomy, but dense internal scar tissue can complicate this process. The person is seeking advice from others who have gone through similar experiences to better prepare for their upcoming consultation with their doctor. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by the community:

1. Get more than one medical opinion:
- It's important to seek evaluations from multiple surgeons, especially those who specialize in colorectal surgeries and ostomy reversals. Look for surgeons with high success rates.
- Make sure you understand the specific procedure being proposed, whether it's a simple re-anastomosis or a J-pouch creation.

2. Early post-operative period is usually difficult but often improves:
- Many people report experiencing significant pain, frequent bowel movements (up to 15 times a day), burning sensations, bloating, and gas in the initial weeks or months.
- However, positive experiences often include a gradual reduction in pain and frequency of bowel movements, with some individuals becoming pain-free and returning to normal activities after a few months.

3. Medication and fiber help regulate output:
- Medications like Lomotil and fiber supplements like Citrucel can help slow bowel motility and thicken stool, resulting in 8-10 oatmeal-like bowel movements per day.

4. Diet adjustments can ease symptoms and scar-tissue discomfort:
- Identifying "safe foods" can be beneficial. Some people find protein sources, cheese, yogurt, and soda crackers to be helpful, while bread may cause issues.
- Limiting gas-producing foods can help reduce painful gas trapped by adhesions.

5. Outcomes vary; be prepared for all possibilities:
- Experiences can differ greatly. Some people have excellent results, while others may face persistent pain, diarrhea, or even a return to dual ostomies due to complications.
- Success often depends on the surgeon's expertise, the extent of adhesions, and individual healing processes.

6. Lifestyle and emotional aspects:
- There is a learning curve involved, such as knowing when it's safe to pass gas, managing bowel movement frequency while working or socializing, and dealing with body-image concerns.
- Listening to detailed and candid stories from others who have been through similar experiences can help alleviate fears and set realistic expectations.

Products and medications mentioned include Lomotil (diphenoxylate/atropine) and Citrucel (methylcellulose fiber supplement).
See full discusison
Gray Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
MeetAnOstoMate.org

MeetAnOstoMate is a remarkable community of 41,427 members.

“I found real people, real humor, and answers I couldn’t get anywhere else.”

“The support here impressed my husband’s medical team - they plan to recommend it.”

“This community saved me when I thought I was a freak. Now I’m thriving.”

“Thank god for this site - I finally knew what to ask my surgeon.”

Join Free

Popular Topics

Hello! I'm a very recent ostomate.
Say hello to my little friend…
Erectile Dysfunction
Leaking Where Pouch Connects to Ring
Well hello!
BACK IN THE SAME BOX
Black Polyp on Stoma: Seeking Advice and Experiences
Having Good Luck Finally With Leaks
I have a question
Time Flies

New Topics

Cohesive Ring Swelling Around Stoma: Need Advice
Intrduction
Hello!
USA Women's Rugby World Cup in UK Now
You're on your own.
Magnesium and Its Effects on Post-Ileostomy Leg Cramps
An old guy looking for new things
You have a good outlook
well here i am
Giving away ostomy products. NH area.
About us | Privacy policy | Terms of use | Ostomy Blogs | Ostomy Q&A | Guides | Contact Us
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and Google Privacy Policy and Google Terms of Service apply.
Copyright (c) MeetAnOstoMate.org All Rights Reserved
Create Account
Login
↑